Iyashikei anime, also known as healing anime, aim to provide a calming and rejuvenating experience for the viewer. Through their slow-paced narratives, serene visuals, and atmospheric music, these shows offer a gentle escape from the daily pressures of life.
Whether someone is in need of a break from a busy work week or is facing challenges in their personal life, iyashikei anime possesses a special ability to elevate one’s mood. This compilation comprises of the most highly-praised and peaceful iyashikei anime created thus far. Each selection highlights genuine connections, finding joy in small moments, and replenishing one’s mental and emotional well-being.
10 Soothing Anime to Calm Your Mind and Soothe Your Soul
Busy
Mushishi exemplifies the genre of iyashikei anime, as it tells the story of Ginko, a mysterious man who embarks on episodic adventures to investigate “Mushi”- otherworldly creatures that reside in a realm between life and death and are responsible for unexplainable phenomena. Through his efforts to help those affected by Mushi, Ginko promotes the idea of living in harmony with nature rather than rejecting the mysteries that cannot be fully comprehended.
Mushishi captivates viewers with its serene atmosphere, accompanied by subtle background music and dialogue. The stunning rural landscapes and Ginko’s quiet but profound insights further enhance the tranquility of the series. Through its supernatural stories, the show reveals a deep bond between humanity and nature, putting everyday struggles into perspective.
2. Natsume’s Book of Friends
Natsume’s Book of Friends is a soothing anime that follows the story of Natsume, a compassionate high-school student who has possessed the ability to see spirits since childhood. After inheriting a mystical book from his late grandmother Reiko, Natsume, who has been frequently relocated to different foster homes due to his unsettling power, makes the kind-hearted decision to release the spirits bound by Reiko’s magic.
Despite enduring years of isolation and rejection due to his power, Natsume forges friendships with both humans and spirits. This allows him to learn the value of trust and maintain hope, as depicted in Natsume’s Book of Friends through its poignant exploration of themes such as prejudice and loneliness. The series delicately tugs at the heartstrings, ultimately affirming the beauty of life.
3. Aria the Animation
Aria the Animation remains a classic example of an iyashikei anime, taking place in the 24th century on Aqua, a planet that has been transformed from Mars. The city of Neo-Venezia, designed after Venice, serves as the setting for the series. The story centers on Akari Mizunashi, a young gondolier in training who moves to Aqua with the goal of becoming an “Undine”- a highly respected and skilled female gondolier known for her charm.
While befriending her rival Undines and experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Aqua’s canals, Akari learns to appreciate the small joys in life such as stargazing. Her unwavering optimism is also nurtured through her interactions with the gentle and enthusiastic characters of Aria, all set against the backdrop of stunning scenery. This anime exudes a deep love for life’s simple pleasures.
Laid-Back Camp
Laid-Back Camp is an iyashikei anime that centers on Rin Shima, a solo camper who finds tranquility in all seasons and frequently uses her moped to explore remote locations. While on one of her trips, Rin meets Nadeshiko Kagamihara, a fellow camping enthusiast, and learns to appreciate the joy of outdoor socializing.
With a shared interest in camping, Rin and Nadeshiko’s cozy gatherings with new friends in Laid-Back Camp lovingly showcase Japan’s beautiful outdoor scenery throughout the changing seasons. The series highlights the joy of simple campsite cookouts and an appreciation for the natural world, rather than indulging in luxury for relaxation.
No No Biyori
Non Non Biyori is a calming anime that follows the story of Hotaru Ichijo, a schoolgirl who moves from busy Tokyo to the small village of Asahigaoka. Despite initially struggling to adapt to her new surroundings, Hotaru forms close bonds with three unique classmates of varying ages in a one-room schoolhouse where students of all grades learn together.
By depicting silly adventures centered around country life, such as picking vegetables, saving baby chickens, and failed camping trips, Non Non Biyori satirizes and challenges typical “out-of-place”plot devices. Hotaru rediscovers the joy of mundane tasks with the help of her enthusiastic new friends who have a deep appreciation for life’s uncomplicated joys.
Barakamon
Barakamon is an anime that falls into the iyashikei genre, starting with the aftermath of protagonist Seishu’s altercation with a gallery curator who criticized his calligraphy. As a result, he is exiled to the tranquil Gotou Islands in order to contemplate his actions and seek out fresh sources of inspiration. Despite his best efforts to focus on his artistic pursuits, Seishu is frequently sidetracked by the lively children of the island who constantly demand his attention, making it a challenge for him to reconnect with his creative drive.
As Seishu’s fiery personality mellows during his encounters with the close-knit community, he discovers the ability to appreciate imperfections and let go of self-criticism. The lively island atmosphere and eccentric villagers of Barakamon infuse Seishu’s creativity and emotional state with a new sense of vitality.
7. Flying Witch
Makoto, a young witch, moves to Aomori after high school to continue her training with her relatives. Despite her mediocre magical skills, Makoto leads a simple life in the countryside. She helps out with the family farm, spends time with her cousins, and befriends the local teenagers, making Flying Witch a delightful iyashikei anime.
With a lack of intense drama and a leisurely pace, Flying Witch manages to find both humor and awe in Makoto’s simple attempts at magic while she adapts to life in a small town. The watercolor backgrounds and overall sense of wonder towards the mysteries of nature promote a sense of healing and a journey of self-discovery.
8. The Super Cub
Super Cub is a serene iyashikei anime that follows Koguma, a reclusive high school student who grapples with loneliness because of her absence of familial and social ties. Her monotonous existence seems to have no meaning until she comes across a secondhand Honda Super Cub motorcycle. As she starts traveling on this iconic bike, her horizons widen and she develops a bond with Reiko, a fellow rider she meets on her journeys.
Super Cub gracefully balances simplicity and keen observation, revealing the profound significance of life’s often ignored moments. As Koguma learns to rely on herself and embrace independence through her beloved wheels, she also experiences a gradual emotional growth. By highlighting the value of finding joy in small daily moments, the series evokes a sense of tranquil peace.
Hidamari Sketch
The heartwarming iyashikei anime, Hidamari Sketch, follows the story of young Yuno who is granted admission into her desired art high school. Upon moving into the Hidamari Apartments adjacent to campus, she befriends her fellow art students who become her close and supportive companions.
As the girls experience the humorous mishaps of youth together, they use their cute artistic talents to capture their daily lives. Heartwarming and funny, Hidamari Sketch portrays the happy relationships that give life significance. Seeing the caring Hidamari residents support and encourage each other’s passions reminds us that human connections give purpose to our endeavors.
10. Girls’ Last Tour
Girls’ Last Tour is an exceptional iyashikei anime that takes place in a bleak future. Chito and Yuuri navigate through deserted cities in their Kettenkrad, an armored vehicle, in search of supplies. Along the way, they engage in profound discussions, comedic mishaps, and marvel at remnants of civilizations long gone. Through their travels, the girls chronicle their experiences in a decaying world.
With a poetic and melancholic tone, Girls’ Last Tour captures the fleeting beauty of humanity’s gradual decline. As Chito and Yuuri embrace their post-apocalyptic surroundings with a sense of wonder, their optimism brings comfort through their explorations.
Conclusion
Their loving perspective on relationships and emphasis on appreciating life’s temporary beauty brings a calming comfort to troubled minds.
For those struggling with busy schedules or navigating through aimless uncertainty, iyashikei anime series offer a much-needed break. Similar to a tranquil evening walk after a tiring day, these comforting shows offer a way to unwind and refresh the mind.
Through emphasizing subtle details that enhance the experience of life, these anime narratives reveal the idea that true fulfillment comes from embracing the simple moments rather than chasing distant aspirations. Their comforting stories convey the message that contentment can be found by being receptive to the present.
- 10 best supernatural anime to get you into the genre
- 10 best anime of the last decade
- 10 best one-season anime series
- 10 best rom-com anime everyone must watch
Related Articles:
Ranma 1/2 Episode 9 Release Date for 2024: Streaming Options and Additional Details
8:34
Danmachi Season 5 Episode 9 Release Date, Streaming Options, and Additional Details
8:33
Dragon Ball DAIMA Episode 8 Release Date, Predictions, and Updates
8:28
Leave a Reply